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Return To Ginseng Article Archive   Ginseng Benefits - The 411 By Kelly O'Quinn At one point or another you have probably heard about the incredible healing properties of Ginseng. It has been associated with improved circulation (which has made it a popular herbal alternative to erectile dysfunction drugs), fending off the flu (especially in the elderly), helping prevent cancer reoccurrence, and treating Type II Diabetes. But here is an important point, there are different kinds of Ginseng and each offers different benefits. So how do you know which kind Ginseng will provide the benefits that you want? There are 3 main categories of Ginseng: American, Asian (also called Chinese or Korean) and Siberian. Technically, Siberian Ginseng isn't really Ginseng because it comes from a different type of plant, but since most people don't make this technical distinction when talking about Ginseng, I'll include the benefits of Siberian Ginseng in this article as well. First, there is American Ginseng (Panax quinquefolius). One of the amazing benefits of American Ginseng is that it has been shown through clinical research to reduce flu infections in the elderly. Interestingly enough, in many Asian cultures, the American form of Ginseng is the favored form of Ginseng because it is considered to be more pure. Asian Ginseng (Panax ginseng) comes in two varieties: White and Red (or Korean Ginseng). Both the White and Red Ginseng come from the same plant, the difference is that they are grown for different lengths of time and are prepared differently. White and Red Ginseng have similar healing properties though sometimes to different degrees, depending on the specific condition. For example, both types are credited with helping to prevent cancer reoccurrence, but the effects were more pronounced with Red Ginseng. Because American and Asian Ginseng are derived from very similar plants, they have very similar properties. In traditional Chinese medicine though they are believed to have some distinct characteristics by virtue of the fact of being grown in different locations. According to Chinese tradition, the primary difference is that American Ginseng provides Yin energy (calming, cool) and Asian Ginseng provides Yang energy (invigorating, hot). Despite these differences, there are some conditions that they are both effective in treating. For example, both are used in the treatment of Type II Diabetes, both seem to have positive effects on circulation and both have been shown to be effective as an aphrodisiac, increasing both sexual interest and sexual performance. Once again though, even though both the American and Asian Ginseng were effective, the Red Asian Ginseng seemed to show the greatest benefits. Siberian Ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus), as mentioned above comes from a different plant altogether and isn't technically "Ginseng" at all. However, it shares some of the same characteristics and properties of Asian Ginseng. It is probably best known for increasing endurance. Additionally, it can act as a mild anti-inflammatory agent and is also an anti-oxidant. What about side effects? Both American and Asian Ginseng are thought to be very safe. Not surprisingly though the most common side effect is sleeplessness. Other side effects that can result from taking large doses of Ginseng include nausea, diarrhea and changes in blood pressure. Ginseng should not be taking for weeks at a time without any breaks and people with heart disease or thyroid disease should not take Ginseng at all. So, that is a brief overview of the different kinds of Ginseng and the different healing benefits of each. As with any health or nutritional advice, it is recommended that you consult with a healthcare practitioner you trust who is familiar with your specific physical condition and needs so that you can make safe and sound decisions about your body. To Your Good Health! Kelly O'Quinn is passionate about herbs and recently developed a 30 Day eCourse that introduces you to the benefits of over 80 herbs. To learn more about these herbs and improve the quality of your life go to http://www.healthyherb411.com keywords: ginseng | herbs | herbal | chinese medicine | ginseng benefits | panax | aphrodisiac | ed | erectile dysfunction Ginseng And Pregnancy

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